Srinagar, Oct 23: Tensions flared in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on the opening day of the autumn session during obituary references to the late Satya Pal Malik, the former governor of J-K, who passed away in August. The debate arose over Malik’s controversial role in the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
National Conference MLA Bashir Veeri described Malik’s tenure as contentious, prompting BJP member Sham Lal Sharma to demand that the remarks be expunged. Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather asked Veeri to maintain decorum but rejected Sharma’s request.
Congress leader G.A. Mir praised Malik as an outspoken and popular leader, acknowledging the challenges he faced in his final days. PDP MLA Rafiq Naik emphasized that while differences with Malik existed, tributes should remain respectful.
CPI(M) MLA M.Y. Tarigami noted that obituary references should not prevent lawmakers from assessing public officials’ actions, provided criticism remains courteous. Awami Ittehad Party MLA Sheikh Khursheed called Malik an honest politician who later advocated for farmers’ rights.
BJP’s Vikram Randhawa highlighted Malik’s distinguished career as governor of multiple states and described August 5, 2019 the day of Article 370 abrogation as historic, coinciding with Malik’s death this year, which drew protests from NC lawmakers.
Satya Pal Malik served as governor of Bihar, Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, and Meghalaya during his long political career, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to spark debate.